pain

I don't want to sound like I'm whining or complaining I just feel the need to talk about my chronic pain.
I was diagnosed with arthritis in my neck and lower back about 3 years ago. For the longest time I didn't know why my neck hurt so much and why no matter what I did or took the pain never went completely away. So being diagnosed helped me to understand even though it didn't make me very happy!
I have mornings when I can barely lift my head off the pillow. My neck is so stiff and painful I literally have to put both hands behind my head with the heels of my hands just behind my ears and fingers wrapped around the base of my skull to take the weight off my neck so I can sit up and get out of bed. It brings tears to my eyes some days. And like I said nothing I take or do seems to help. I've tried different pillows too.
Then there is my lower back, constant pain but it's more of a dull nagging ache. It slows me down and if I'm standing at the sink or stove for any length of time it really starts to hurt. Bending over and touching my toes to stretch my low back eases it for a bit sometimes.
I guess I just wasn't prepared for feeling like this in my 40's and 50's...
I am doing alot of research, trying to find natural ways to ease my pain. I hate taking pain killers and don't for the most part unless I'm having a particularly bad day.
I've been vaguely depressed lately too and think it probably has to do with being in this constant pain.
Anyway, enough whining, lol.
Thanks for listening :)